Nerimbera nears full strength

The Rockhampton representative is back on deck after missing Nerimbera's last round 2-0 away loss to Clinton in Gladstone. Also returning to the home side's starting line-up is key defender Matt Carrigg and midfielder Matt Hickson.

Nerimbera coach Bevan Dingley said yesterday his team was "close to full-strength''.

Dingley said it was an opportunity to find some cohesion and get players back in their right positions after some of his troops' versatility was called on against Clinton, including evergreen defender Darren Jeffries who found himself up-front.

"For us, we're just trying to establish ourselves and get some continuity in our play,'' Dingley said.

"We'll get everyone back in their right roles this week.'' For Bluebirds, Scott Wilson returns to the starting side with captain Bradd Dillon unavailable for tonight's grudge match.

Bluebirds are coming off a disappointing 5-0 whitewash at the hands of Frenchville ? a scoreline Nerimbera also suffered against the premiership leaders.

Dingley said there were no easy games in this year's competition and admitted tonight's clash was no different. "Over the last few years, the Blues have had the edge on us,'' Dingley said.